Listen: In this episode of the Employee Benefits podcast, Ben Gabbitas, resourcing and talent director at Valor Hospitality, discusses the benefits strategy at the hotel management organisation. A key goal for the employer is to provide benefits that support staff however they need, whether that is mental wellbeing support or financial wellbeing benefits.
Gabbitas explains some of the changes the employer has made to its strategy over the past few months, and how it is supporting the career development of its staff.
At a glance
Valor Hospitality is a global hotel management organisation operating 37 hotels across the UK and Europe. It manages brands including IHG, Hilton, Marriott and independent luxury properties.
It has around 3,000 employees and some of its key roles are in housekeeping, food and beverages, rooms, maintainance, revenue, sales and HR.
The average age of employee is 30 to 35.
The primary business objectives that impact on benefits for the coming year:
Valor’s benefits philosophy is to look after its people so they can look after its guests. Benefits are designed to support wellbeing, financial security, career development, mobility and recognition.
Career history
Ben Gabbitas joined Valor in 2022, having gained experience spanning more than 20 years in the hospitality sector, including strategic HR leadership, talent acquisition and cultural transformation. Gabbitas has worked at organisations including Carluccio’s, The Restaurant Group and Malmaison Hotel Du Vin.
What does your typical working week look like?
“My role is pretty varied, with each week being different depending on the portfolio’s requirements and any ongoing projects. In the past year, there has been a big focus on recruiting teams for our new hotels.”
What is your favourite benefit?
“It’s got to be the discounted stays at properties across the Valor portfolio.”
What are the biggest issues currently facing benefits experts?
“Budgets are being squeezed across the board. This means HR teams are facing greater pressure to prove the return on investment that benefits offer.”
